Workation

Home » Workation Retreat

Why is Sicily one of the best workation destinations for digital nomads?

Looking for the ideal workation in Italy? Sicily stands out as a destination in southern Europe for remote workers seeking a stress-free yet inspiring environment. With a lower cost of living, reliable high-speed internet, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, this Mediterranean gem is perfect for a workation retreat.

Sicily is also an affordable choice, with long-term rentals in Sicily offering comfortable accommodation at affordable rates. Enjoy fresh, local food, a slower pace of life, and the warmth of Sicilian hospitality. Locals are welcoming and always ready to share their traditions, making you feel at home instantly.

Do you know why Canestanco 18 is the perfect digital nomad retreat?

At Canestanco 18 we offer an exceptional space for those looking for a workation in Sicily. Imagine working from a peaceful rural setting, enjoying fresh local food, and having the freedom to explore beaches, historic towns, and breathtaking landscapes after your workday. Whether you’re staying for a short getaway or planning long-term workation trips, Sicily has everything you need. Keep reading to discover why we are one of the best places to work, live and travel in the south of Italy.

sicily workation destination

Top 5 Things to Do in Ragusa, Sicily

Whether you’re looking for historic sites, breathtaking nature, or authentic Sicilian cuisine, there are countless things to do near Ragusa in Sicily that will make your workation unforgettable.

 

1. Wander the Baroque Splendor of Ragusa Ibla

Ragusa Ibla is the jewel of the city’s UNESCO-listed Baroque heritage. Its maze of alleyways,
elegant churches, and grand palaces creates a timeless atmosphere. Stroll through its
cobblestone streets, admire the majestic Duomo di San Giorgio, and pause for an espresso in
one of its lively piazzas.

Tip: visit at sunset, when the golden light transforms the town into a photographer’s dream.

2. Relax on the Golden Beaches of Marina di Ragusa and Punta Secca

After a productive work session, head to Punta Secca, just a 5-minute drive from Canestanco
Coliving. This charming fishing village offers golden sandy beaches, clear waters, and the
laid-back vibe of true Sicilian coastal life. Famous as the filming location of Inspector
Montalbano’s seaside house, Punta Secca is perfect for a quick swim, a stroll along the
promenade, or a sunset aperitivo overlooking the lighthouse or the 16th-century watchtower.

things to do ragusa

3. Savor Sicilian Flavors

No visit to Sicily is complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. Ragusa’s food scene is a paradise for food lovers, blending fresh, local ingredients with traditional recipes passed down for generations.

Must-try dishes include:
🍽 Ragusano DOP Cheese – a robust, aged cheese unique to the region.
🍽 Arancini – Crispy rice balls with ragù, cheese, or seasonal fillings
🍽 Caponata – sweet-and-sour eggplant, a true Sicilian classic.
🍽 Cannoli – Crunchy pastry shells filled with creamy ricotta.

Visit family-run trattorias, explore bustling food markets, or join a cooking class (available on request at an additional cost) to learn
how to recreate these dishes yourself.

4. Explore Local Markets and Fishing Villages

For authentic Sicilian flavors, the local markets around Canestanco Coliving are a must.
Here you’ll find stalls filled with sun-ripened tomatoes, fragrant citrus fruits, olives, and
freshly baked breads. For seafood lovers, the fish markets of Scoglitti (famous for its daily catches and lively auctions) and Donnalucata (with its charming seaside atmosphere) are
unmissable. Both towns are just a 20-minute drive away, or even reachable by bicycle for
the enthusiasts.

vendicari ragusa sicily

5. Hike and Unwind at Randello Nature Reserve

If you’re craving a dose of nature without venturing too far, Randello Nature Reserve is just
a short bicycle ride away. This protected coastal area combines fragrant pine woods with
hidden sandy coves.

🌿 Scenic trails shaded by Mediterranean pines
🌿 Panoramic sea views perfect for photography
🌿 Secluded, untouched beaches ideal for a quiet swim or picnic

Randello is the perfect nearby escape to recharge in pure nature, just minutes from
Canestanco.

Looking for your workation package?

Contact us and we’ll help you plan your ideal workation

Workation retreat at Canestanco Living: what to do around

Activities during your stay

Activities vary with the season, guests’ interest and availability. Some happen spontaneously; others require advance booking and may involve an additional charge. Ask us what is planned for your dates.

  1. Sicilian Cooking Classes – Learn to make traditional Sicilian dishes in a hands-on cooking lesson, available on request at an additional cost.
  2. Communal Dinners – Enjoy spontaneous shared meals with fellow guests, either free of charge or with food costs shared among participants.
  3. Swimming – Relax in the property’s swimming pool.
  4. BBQ Nights – Join spontaneous BBQ evenings in the outdoor grill area, either free of charge or with food costs shared among participants.
  5. Garden Activities – Feel free to join in gardening and pick fresh produce from the organic vegetable garden, free of charge.

Other experiences may be available by arrangement:

  • Ricotta cheese-making experience with Uncle Giovanni
  • Fondue night
  • Meat or fish BBQ – spontaneously organised, free of charge or with shared food costs.
  • Pizza night (wood-fired oven)
  • International food challenge and communal meal (each guest cooks a dish)
  • Thursday morning: local market shopping trip (prep onsite meals after)
  • Game night (board games, quiz, cards)
  • Skill swap (each guest teaches something)
  • Sunset yoga or meditation
  • Massages under the trees
sicily cooking classes
dinner canestanco 18
swimming pool caenstanco18
canestanco 18 outdoor
yoga class

Things to do during a workation retreat in Sicily

 
  • Beach Visits – Canestanco is close to stunning Sicilian beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing.
  • Sightseeing in Ragusa, Modica & Scicli – Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed baroque towns of Sicily, full of historic charm and local culture.
  • Historical Tours – Visit archaeological and cultural sites across Sicily, including landmarks made famous by the Inspector Montalbano TV series.
  • Cycling Tours – Ride through the Sicilian countryside, discovering vineyards, olive groves, and small traditional villages.
  • Horseback Riding – Enjoy a scenic horseback ride along Sicily’s coastal trails and rolling rural landscapes.
  • Light Hiking – Discover natural wonders like Cava d’Ispica, Randello, and Vendicari Nature Reserve on easy hiking routes.
  • Boat Trips – Spend a day at sea snorkeling, fishing, or simply relaxing in the Mediterranean breeze.
  • Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Explore Sicily’s bays and coastline while staying active on the water.
  • Stargazing Nights – Experience Sicily’s night sky in a dark-sky area, perfect for an unforgettable evening under the stars.
  • Foraging Walks – Join a local guide to learn about Sicily’s wild herbs, plants, and edible treasures.
  • Mount Etna Excursion – Take a day trip to Europe’s most active volcano and enjoy breathtaking views of Sicily.
  • Day Trips – Discover nearby gems like Noto, Siracusa, and Agrigento, each rich in culture, history, and Sicilian charm.
  • Local Crafts Workshops – Get hands-on with traditional Sicilian crafts such as ceramics or weaving.
  • Open-Air Performances – Enjoy outdoor theatre or music events in historic Sicilian towns.
  • Wine Tasting – Visit Sicilian vineyards for a tasting of the island’s most renowned wines.
  • Olive Oil Tasting – Learn about olive oil production and sample authentic Sicilian extra virgin oils at local mills.
  • Picnics & Dining – Savor a casual picnic in nature or enjoy hearty meals at local Sicilian restaurants.
workation canestanco 18
kayak
sicilian wine taste

Check our Accommodations

Rural Private Apartments

Fully Furnished Self-Catering apartments. Ideal for groups, couples or solo travelers.
See Apartments
coliving rooms

Coliving rooms in a shared house

Your own furnished private space, with options for different budgets.
See Rooms

Workation FAQ

A workation combines work and vacation, allowing you to continue your job remotely while enjoying a new, refreshing location. It’s the perfect way to boost productivity, reduce stress, and explore new places without sacrificing your professional commitments.

A workation at Canestanco 18 means high-speed WiFi, comfortable workspaces, and a vibrant community of like-minded professionals. You can start your day with deep focus, take breaks by the pool or at the beach, and enjoy Sicilian culture and nature after work. It’s an opportunity to improve work-life balance, feel inspired, and live at a slower, more fulfilling pace while staying productive.

Not at Canestanco 18! We offer affordable long-stay options designed for remote workers who want to balance work and leisure without overspending. Enjoy our comfortable accommodations, strong community, and inspiring natural surroundings at great rates.

 

Yes! Canestanco 18 is the perfect place for a family-friendly workation. With spacious accommodations, a peaceful environment, and nature all around, you can work productively while your children enjoy the outdoor space, beach trips, and a relaxed rural lifestyle.

 

Questions about your stay? Get in touch.

(+39) 3701165378

Privacy Policy*
Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions

BOOK NOW

Let us know the date of your stay, and we will get back to you within 24 hours.

Or, if you have any urgent request, you can call us or send a WhatsApp. 

 
  • (+39) 3701165378
Privacy Policy*
Privacy Policy Terms and Conditions